Vertebrate Use of Habitats Created by Installation of Field-Scale Erosion Control Structures

Abstract

ABSTRACT Installation of field-scale erosion control structures or drop pipes is a common method for controlling knickpoint gully erosion in fields adjacent to incised streams. These structures transfer runoff water from field level to stream level through a metal drain pipe. The shape of the gully side collection basin at the pipe inlet allows small terrestrial and wetland habitats to develop with associated shallow pools that may be permanently or seasonally flooded. This study evaluated vertebrate use of habitats created by the installation of drop pipes. Four different habitats were categorized based on water depth and surrounding vegetation. Category 1 habitat has the smallest temporary pool, least vegetative structure, and is a terrestrial habitat. Categories consecutively increase to Category 4 which has the deepest pool, most vegetative structure, and is a wetland habitat. Study sites were surveyed for the five major vertebrate classes. Mean species richness and percentage capture abundance for all vertebrate classes increased from Category 1 habitats to Category 3 or 4 habitats. In all drop pipe habitat categories, amphibians had the highest percent capture abundance, fish were second, birds were third, mammals were fourth, and reptiles had the lowest percent capture abundance.